Kat Reynolds stops by the beauty products store about as often as some people shop for groceries — about three times a month.

For many women, shampoos, conditioners, extensions and weaves seem to hold the key not only to an improved appearance but also a kind of self-satisfaction, according to Reynolds. With that in mind, the photographer is curating an art exhibition, “Mane ‘n Tail,” named for a popular line of beauty products.

Reynolds said the show, which opens Jan. 19, focuses on female attractiveness and African-American culture, including money and self-determination.

“The whole concept of black women going into the beauty supply and being able to change their appearance so easily is like ultimate freedom,” Reynolds said.

“Mane 'n Tail” mirrors Reynolds’ own journey around beauty, from childhood to adulthood.

“It’s like, ‘Oh, how can I blend in and make friends,’ and then when you get older, you’re like, ‘Oh, how can I not blend in and look unique and still be myself?’” she said.

The exhibition features photography, new media, installation and sculpture, including hair weaves and braids.

“I felt like I couldn’t actually have a beauty supply show without actually having hair,” Reynolds said.

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A longtime gallery owner is debuting an exhibition Jan. 13 that he hopes will draw people from all over the country to see African-American art in St. Louis.

“All Colors” features the work of 66 national and local artists. The Portfolio Gallery nonprofit will present the show at the Artists’ Guild, 2 Jackson Ave., in Clayton, the first exhibition following the sale of its Grand Center building.

Portfolio owner Robert Powell sold the gallery space in 2015 with the goal of supporting African-American artists.

On Thursday’s St. Louis on the Air, we did a year-in-review of the top arts and culture stories of 2017. Joining host Don Marsh for the discussion were St. Louis Public Radio reporters Nancy Fowler and Willis Ryder Arnold.

“It’s been a really exciting time to be covering St. Louis arts in the last couple of years,” Arnold said.